Gandhi Jayanti: 7 Must-Watch Movies That Bring Bapu's Legacy to Life on Screen

On Gandhi Jayanti, many people remember Mahatma Gandhi by watching films based on his life. These movies show his journey, values, and how he inspired millions through peace, truth, and non-violence.

 

Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Indian nation, has inspired countless filmmakers with his life, philosophy, and impact on world history. From international biopics to Indian dramas and fictional stories influenced by his teachings, cinema has explored various aspects of his journey, from his formative years in South Africa to leading India’s non-violent struggle for independence. These films not only document historical moments but also reflect Gandhi’s enduring relevance in today’s world. Here's a look at some of the most notable movies based on or inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.

Director: Richard Attenborough

Actor: Ben Kingsley as Mahatma Gandhi

Language: English

About: The most well-known biopic on Gandhi, this Oscar-winning film covers his life from a young lawyer to the leader of India’s non-violent freedom movement.

Director: Shyam Benegal

Actor: Rajit Kapur as Gandhi

Language: English

About: Focuses on Gandhi's 21 years in South Africa and how that shaped his philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience.

Director: Feroz Abbas Khan

Actor: Darshan Jariwala as Gandhi

Language: Hindi/English

About: Explores Gandhi’s troubled relationship with his eldest son, Harilal Gandhi.

Director: Rajkumar Hirani

Actor: Sanjay Dutt, with Dilip Prabhavalkar as Gandhi

Language: Hindi

About: A fictional comedy-drama where Gandhi appears as a guiding spirit. Popularized the concept of "Gandhigiri."

Director: Kamal Haasan

Actor: Naseeruddin Shah as Gandhi

Language: Tamil/Hindi

About: A fictional take on the communal violence during Partition and the assassination of Gandhi.

Director: Mark Robson

Language: English

About: A dramatization of the nine hours leading up to Gandhi's assassination, told from the assassin Nathuram Godse’s point of view.

Director: Jahnu Barua

Actor: Anupam Kher

Language: Hindi

About: Not a direct biopic, but explores Gandhi’s relevance in modern times through a man who believes he killed Gandhi.